Patanjali's Yogasutra | Dr. Kausthub Desikachar | YS II.31 - II.32 | 23 Feb 2019

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The discussion begins with references to various concepts and figures in a spiritual context.

Roopa Madam and Spiritual Concepts

• Roopa Madam, Prabhavati, Jacket, Shiraishi, Fish, Annie Cabbot Rizzo mentioned.

• Introduction to spiritual terms like Avidya, Jnana, Puja, Yoga.

• Reference to the importance of Sharira (body) and Vaidya (physician).

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Brief mention of Moneena and Patandjill in a spiritual context.

Moneena and Patandjill

• Mention of Moneena and Patandjill in a spiritual context.

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Discussion on spiritual concepts like Chakra, Sahasra Sheera, Prana Mommy Patanjali.

Spiritual Concepts Discussion

• Reference to Chakra and Sahasra Sheera.

• Mention of Prana Mommy Patanjali in the discourse.

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Reflection on spirituality with reference to Patanjali.

Reflection on Spirituality

• Contemplation on spirituality with a focus on Patanjali's teachings.

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Delving into the concept of Yama from Ashtanga Yoga by Patanjali.

Concept of Yama

• Explanation of the five Yamas - Ahimsa, Satyam, Asteya, Brahmacharya, Aparigraha.

• Importance of these principles in life for reducing karma towards freedom.

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Detailed explanation of the five Yamas - Ahimsa, Satyam, Asteya, Brahmacharya, Aparigraha.

Five Yamas Explained

• Ahimsa as non-violence.

• Satyam as truthfulness in speech and life.

• Asteya as not stealing or taking what doesn't belong.

• Brahmacharya as integrity in relationships.

• Aparigraha as not receiving more than needed.

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Linking Yamas to karma reduction for spiritual growth.

Karma Reduction through Yamas

• Significance of Yamas in reducing karma for spiritual progress.

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Discussing reflections prompted by Patandjill regarding exceptions related to Yamas for different individuals.

Exceptions to Yamas

The Significance of Holy Places and Exceptions in Practices

The discussion delves into the significance of holy places like Kaveri and Manasarovar, where fishing is prohibited due to their sacred nature. It also explores exceptions in fishing practices based on astrological reasons and practical considerations.

The Importance of Holy Places

• Certain locations like Sri Rangam on the banks of Kaveri are deemed holy, prohibiting fishermen from catching fish to respect the sanctity of these areas.

Exceptions in Fishing Practices

• Fishermen are advised not to fish on the 14th day of the Moon due to practical reasons related to ocean tides, ensuring their safety during turbulent waves.

Circumstantial Exceptions

• In exceptional circumstances such as drought or famine, fishermen may need to make exceptions to catch fish for survival in holy places like Sri Rangam.

Flexibility in Rules

• Flexibility and minimal freedom within rules are necessary based on circumstances; for instance, resorting to violence against an attacking animal for self-defense is considered acceptable (samaya Dharma).

Understanding Violence and Appropriation in Modern Practices

This segment explores the concept of violence (ahimsa) in various contexts, including surgery for life-saving purposes versus cosmetic procedures. It also addresses cultural appropriation issues in modern yoga practices.

Interpretation of Violence

• Violence (ahimsa) can be justified in certain situations such as life-threatening surgeries aimed at saving lives rather than cosmetic enhancements.

Cultural Appropriation Concerns

• Critique is raised against Western individuals who engage in cultural misappropriation by blending unrelated activities like drinking beer with yoga practice, deviating from traditional yogic principles.

Preservation of Yoga's Integrity

Philosophy and Daily Life

The discussion delves into the integration of philosophy into daily life, emphasizing the importance of living philosophically both consciously and unconsciously.

Integrating Philosophy into Daily Life

• Philosophy is alive in every aspect of life, from homes to temples to streets, as individuals carry it like water, living out its principles daily.

• Exceptions are necessary in life due to its imperfections and challenges. Patanjali offers exceptions for ordinary individuals while those like Acharya Shankaracharya commit fully to spiritual elevation without exceptions.

• Ordinary people make exceptions in following philosophical principles due to family life's demands and adjustments required. In contrast, spiritual aspirants like Shankaracharya adhere strictly without exceptions.

The Concept of Purity

The discourse explores the notion of purity beyond physical cleanliness, focusing on remaining true to one's essence without deviation.

Understanding Purity

• Purity extends beyond physical cleanliness; it involves staying true to oneself without adulteration or deviation from one's essence.

• Purity is defined by remaining unchanged and unadulterated. It is not about external cleanliness but about being authentic and true to one's essence.

Embracing One's Essence

This segment emphasizes accepting one's nature and essence, advocating for authenticity over conformity or societal pressures.

Embracing Authenticity

• True purity lies in accepting one's nature without trying to be someone else. Embrace your essence at all levels—physical, emotional—and resist societal pressures dictating otherwise.

Acceptance and Contentment

In this section, the speaker discusses the importance of acceptance and contentment in one's life, emphasizing the need to embrace oneself fully.

Acceptance Leads to Purity

• Acceptance reflects true charm, purity, and a sense of belonging.

• True acceptance means embracing oneself as they are without seeking external validation.

• Making peace with one's nature leads to contentment and inner harmony.

Embracing True Nature

The discussion shifts towards accepting one's true nature and avoiding resistance to change.

Embrace Your True Self

• Embrace your true nature as it is now, rather than clinging to past versions of yourself.

• Life is constantly evolving; resisting change leads to dissatisfaction.

• Be authentic in your pursuits; avoid trying to be someone you're not.

Contentment and Self-Acceptance

The speaker delves into the concept of contentment and self-acceptance as keys to personal fulfillment.

Be Content with Yourself

• Embrace your inherent talents and inclinations without forcing yourself into roles that don't align with your essence.

• Contentment stems from accepting who you are and what you can offer.

• Comparing oneself to others breeds discontent; true happiness lies in self-awareness.

Society's Influence on Dissatisfaction

The impact of societal norms on individual satisfaction is explored, highlighting the role of social media in perpetuating discontent.

Societal Dissatisfaction

• Social media amplifies dissatisfaction by fostering comparison and unrealistic expectations.

• People tend to find fault easily due to societal conditioning towards constant critique.

• Cultivating contentment amidst societal pressures is crucial for personal well-being.

The Importance of Timing and Purpose in Life

The speaker discusses the significance of timing and purpose in life, emphasizing the impact of emotions, actions, and finding one's Dharma.

Timing and Emotions

• Emphasizes the importance of managing emotions at the right time; holding onto toxic emotions can be detrimental.

• States that emotions like anger, grief, and happiness can turn toxic if not expressed appropriately.

Discovering Purpose

• Encourages self-reflection to understand one's purpose in life (Dharma) beyond mundane activities.

• Highlights that identifying one's purpose may lead to facing obstacles but emphasizes the importance of persisting.

Living with Purpose and Meaning

The discussion delves into living a purposeful life, leaving a meaningful legacy, and understanding cultural symbolism related to life's transient nature.

Legacy and Purpose

• Urges individuals to live with a sense of purpose beyond material pursuits or transient activities.

• Discusses cultural practices symbolizing life's impermanence and the importance of leaving behind more than material possessions.

Discovering True Intentions

• Advocates for introspection to uncover personal motivations and resources needed to fulfill one's purpose (Dharma).

Actions as Offerings: Serving a Higher Purpose

Explores the concept of performing actions as offerings to a higher entity, emphasizing humility, service, giving without expectations, and receiving graciously.

Serving a Higher Entity

• Stresses performing actions selflessly as offerings to a higher teacher or divine entity rather than ego-driven motives.

• Aligning actions with intentions while acknowledging that outcomes may not always be within individual control.

Giving and Receiving Gracefully

• Encourages giving without expectations while also learning to receive graciously without attaching guilt or obligation.

Pranayama and Karma in Yoga

The discussion delves into the significance of pranayama in yoga practice, emphasizing the importance of offering and receiving with a pure heart. Additionally, it explores the concept of karma and its role in shaping individual paths.

Pranayama Offering and Receiving

• "Give it to the divine when you receive it for the divine in you."

• Emphasizes giving from the heart without seeking recognition or visibility.

Karma and Its Impact

• Acting without ego reduces karma, while ego-driven actions increase karmic burden.

• Discusses cultural misappropriation and emphasizes yoga's role in reducing karma through purity.

Understanding Personal Dharma and Boundaries

This segment focuses on personal dharma, karma's influence on life choices, and the importance of aligning with one's inherent path.

Embracing Personal Dharma

• Interference with one's destined path disrupts the divine plan encoded by karma.

• Freedom lies not in defiance but in harmonizing with one's karmic flow.

Setting Boundaries Through Dharma

• Metaphorically compares personal boundaries to river banks guiding one towards their destined destination.